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Kessler Pocket Jib Traveler Overview and Test Drive

Although we may have a few different types of portable jib / cranes at our disposal (some more portable than others), there's no doubt that the most robust of the bunch is one from Kessler. Here's a product overview video and demo footage shot with the Kessler Pocket Jib Traveler.

The Pocket Jib Traveler is 27 inches in length when collapsed and is completely self contained. No tools required for assembly, and does not need to be taken apart for travel. A panning base means it will work directly onto a tripod without requiring an additional fluid head. The Pocket Jib Traveler is rated to handle rigs up to 10lbs.

A long sliding rear bar is used for fine tuning counterweight, and the length (ratio) means you'll require less counterweight to balance your camera. We only required a 5 pound weight to balance out this 5D Mark III with 24-105mm Lens. In our video we're using a Carbon Fiber Tripod, so our total travel package is easy to travel with. Window cuts along the frame of the jib keep the overall system light-weight without sacrificing the structural integrity. To mount up larger / longer camera bodies that, you can use the (optional) Camera Platform Extender.

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9 thoughts on “Kessler Pocket Jib Traveler Overview and Test Drive”

I have this jib and you need to keep in mind that it does wobble. Any side-to-side vibration introduced near the rear art will travel to the front arm. As I found out by experimenting having my fingers near the rear (like in the video) would introduce visible vibrations that the camera would pick up.

I think this is likely due to a combination of issues:

1. I have never used a heavy duty jib, but this is a travel lightweight design so is more susceptible to external vibrations
2. Shooting at high zooms. Shooter wider should make vibrations less noticeable
3. Position where you move the jib arm. I think keeping fingers away from the rear arm and controlling more from the center column seems to help.

I also read that wobbles could be reduce by not extending the camera arm out that far. But this will reduce your travel height.

There is also a jib I found called the Genustech Mini Jib I think it has the same compact portable feature that the Kessler gives at a more affordable price. Though I still think the kessler looks a bit better in terms of build quality.

I love Kessler gear. Especially the pocket dolly, which I have, and that QR plate system. It's just pretty expensive to fully change over. Not as tempted by the jib since there are so many great compact options out there. But I'd like to try it out.